When Should You Have Someone Else Build Your Site?

Although this site is dedicated to showing how you can build your own site, there are some cases where you really will need to have someone else either build some or all of your site for you. Here are some reasons:

You don't have the time to build your own site.
You've tried building your own site and it just didn't work out.
You need an online shopping cart.
You need a blog.
You've looked at all the template designs and want a design that more personalized for you.
You need online forms.
You require some other custom programming.

So Now What?

Whether you've started your own site or need the whole site built, the next step is to find a good web designer. You can look at marketing agencies, web design agencies, or private contractors: either web designers or web developers. As a general rule, you'll get better results with an actual company (agency) vs an individual but you'll also end up paying more. Agencies will have processes in place and more collective experience working with projects of all sizes. You can either search the web or try your Yellow Pages but keep these guidelines handy:

Local or not? You may want to work with someone local so that you can meet in person. However, if you don't care about about meeting in person with your designer, broaden your search to the whole country. Steer clear of international agencies though - the culture/time differences will drive you nuts!
Online Portfolio: Don't ever go with anyone unless they have an impressive online portfolio. You need to see examples of their quality and style.
Ask for a quote. Either call or email them. Tell them what exactly what you're looking for and ask for a ballpark figure. The more details you can supply, the more accurate their estimate will be.
Go with your gut feeling. If you get the feeling after talking with them that they're full of it, listen to that gut feeling and move on.
Get everything in writing! Make sure that after any work is done on your site that you have a signed contract that states how much you are going to pay and what you are going to get for that. Also, make sure that you retain ALL rights to your site after the work is completed.
Ask for suggestions. They might have another way for you to get the same results but in less time or money. Doesn't hurt to ask!
Do a Google Search on them. A quick Google search will tell you whether the agency/individual has been naughty or nice. If they are in the habit of screwing people over, there's probably a complaint about them on the web. Conversely, if they repeatedly do good work, there will probably be recommendations.

Don't forget Peak Systems!

I'm an Account Manager and Creative Guru at Peak Systems, and run our Boise office. Learn more about us and get contact information at either of the sites below: